State police say Thompson raid reveals elaborate marijuana operation

Thompson - A local man is facing marijuana cultivation and sales charges following a raid at his home Tuesday, which state and federal authorities say revealed an elaborate growing operation.

State police from Troop D’s Quality of Life Task Force, the Statewide Narcotics Task Force and agents with the Drug Enforcement Administration served two warrants at 20 Leo Circle, the home of 43-year-old Bernard Chausse.

Police said the raid was the result of a lengthy investigation into the cultivation and sale of high grade marijuana from the home.

Inside the home’s detached garage, police said they found a hidden retractable door that led to a second floor room with a temperature and oxygen-controlled grow room with elaborate watering and ventilation systems and 25 marijuana plants.

Police said they seized about 3½ pounds of marijuana packaged for sale, two firearms, scales, packaging equipment, $3,479, a 2004 Dodge Ram truck and two Harley Davidson motorcycles.

Chausse was charged with possession of marijuana with intent to sell, cultivation of marijuana, possession of over one kilogram of marijuana and operating a drug factory. He was held in lieu of a $75,000 bond and is due to appear Wednesday in Danielson Superior Court.

Anyone with information regarding the illegal sale of narcotics is encouraged to call the Troop D Anonymous Tips Hotline at (860) 779-4950 or message the QLTF Facebook page.